Everyone has a story. Here's some of mine. The story behind Lovingly.

You’re probably here because someone you love is going through something difficult, and you feel powerless. I know the feeling. I’ve been there.

"Let me know if there's anything I can do"

Those words, I heard them all throughout 2017. When my partner was diagnosed with cancer, when I cared for him, and when he passed away. Those words are full of kindness, full of intention, but most of the time remain unanswered. Because when you are struggling, it's hard to point out things that might make it even a little better. And even if you manage to point them out, it's even harder to ask.

I came up with the idea of Lovingly at the end of that year. I remembered what had helped me get out of bed. It was true care in the form of acknowledgement and proactive support. Support from loved ones who sent me items such as books, food, letters, eye creams, waterproof mascaras, donations to cancer research... And acknowledgement that it was (and is) absolutely ok to not be ok. It’s human.

I felt strongly towards the acceptance of any emotion, and the fact that support from others is what keeps anyone going. But sometimes it's hard to know what to do or say. So I started composing packages with things that help(ed) me. Things that made my days a little easier, a little more bright, and a little less lonely. You can purchase these items in different boxes on my website, for a friend, family member, or a colleague who could do with the extra kindness. If you don’t want to or can’t buy a box, that’s ok too, sometimes even just your presence and listening ear is kindness enough.

Whoever you’re here for, I promise you, your care, support and love for them matters. You matter.

It truly does mean the world.

Lovingly,

Julie